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Bush commends young environmentalists

WASHINGTON, April 22 (UPI) -- President Bush presented more than a dozen young Americans with awards for their work to improve the environment in an event marking Earth Day Thursday.

"As volunteers, you've given your time and talents in many different ways, and together you're helping to achieve a great national goal: to protect and pass along the great natural beauty of our country," Bush told an audience of students from around the country in a ceremony in the White House's East Garden.

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"Showing concern for the environment is one way of showing your love for America," he added. "Americans are fortunate to be able to breathe clean air and enjoy the beautiful diverse landscapes of our vast continent. By getting your hands dirty and helping to clean up your communities you're putting your ideals into action and you're making America a better place. I hope you know that."

Awards were presented to students from 10 national districts for work ranging from educational efforts to recycled gas reclamation programs. The event followed the president's announcement he planned to restore 3 million acres of wetlands in the next five years.

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